Pineapple Cream Pie: A Dessert with Moderate Glycemic Impact

Pineapple cream pie is a delicious tropical-inspired dessert that combines the sweet tanginess of pineapple with creamy filling in a flaky crust. But how does it affect your blood sugar? Let’s explore the glycemic profile and nutritional information of this popular dessert.

Glycemic Index and Load of Pineapple Cream Pie

With a Glycemic Index (GI) of 59, pineapple cream pie falls in the medium GI range. Foods with GI values between 56-69 cause a moderate rise in blood glucose levels compared to pure glucose.

The Glycemic Load (GL) is 18 per 100g serving, which is considered moderate to high. This indicates that a typical portion of pineapple cream pie can have a notable impact on blood sugar levels.

Nutritional Breakdown

A 100g serving of pineapple cream pie contains:

• Calories: 274
• Protein: 2.36g
• Fat: 15.6g
• Carbohydrates: 31.2g
• Fiber: 0.7g
• Sugar: 18.6g
• Net Carbs: 30.5g

Understanding the Carbohydrate Content

The relatively high carbohydrate content (31.2g per 100g) contributes to this dessert’s moderate glycemic impact. With only 0.7g of fiber and a high sugar content of 18.6g, pineapple cream pie has a net carb count of 30.5g, which explains its moderate to high glycemic load.

Dietary Considerations

For individuals monitoring their blood glucose levels, such as those with diabetes or insulin resistance, pineapple cream pie should be consumed mindfully. The combination of high sugar content and moderate GI means this dessert can cause a significant rise in blood sugar, particularly when eaten in large portions.

Healthier Alternatives and Modifications

If you enjoy pineapple cream pie but want to reduce its glycemic impact, consider:

• Reducing your portion size
• Using a whole grain crust to increase fiber content
• Preparing a version with less added sugar
• Balancing your dessert with protein-rich foods to slow down glucose absorption

Conclusion

Pineapple cream pie, with its GI of 59 and GL of 18, can be enjoyed as an occasional treat in a balanced diet. Being aware of its nutritional profile helps you make informed decisions about portion sizes and frequency, especially if you’re monitoring your blood glucose levels.

Remember that individual responses to foods vary, and factors like what you eat alongside this dessert can affect how it impacts your blood sugar levels.